When it comes to the month of March, “things to do in Seattle” suddenly becomes a top search phrase. Chilly, wet winter days make us want to stay cuddled up in a blanket with our favorite coffee drink, but with the signs of spring starting to appear, we get a burst of energy. It seems nearly everyone is ready to head outdoors and take advantage of the buzz of activities.
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Of course, March things to do in Seattle generally need to be varied. This month is typically a mixed bag, but there are plenty of enticing indoor happenings too. These 10 ideas make it easy to plan your perfect adventure from Victoria to Seattle whether the sun shines or the rhythmic ebb and flow of the rainfall is contributing to our lush, green landscapes.
1. Wildlife and Gray Whale Watching Tour
March marks the arrival of the gray whales on their annual migration from the Baja Peninsula in Mexico to Alaska. Lucky for us, they make a detour to feast on the ghost shrimp in Washington’s inland waters. As they fatten up for the remainder of their journey, it brings the rare opportunity to marvel at the up to 40-ton creatures.
Departing from Pier 69 in March and April, trips include expert onboard naturalists. You’ll learn all about the whales while watching for their distinctive heart-shaped blows and enjoying the spectacular coastal views. Other marine life can often be spotted too, including minke whales, sea otters, and harbor seals. Plus, in March, you can Save Big on Wildlife and Gray Whale Watching | FRS Clipper .
2. Emerald City Comicon – Feb. 29 – Mar. 3
The 21st annual Emerald City Comicon is a favorite among the March things to do in Seattle. It’s the perfect excuse to bring out your inner nerd. Go full-on cosplay of your favorite character or just toss on a t-shirt that celebrates your pop idol. As one of the largest Comicons on the West Coast, you’ll be joining throngs of superheroes, villains, video game characters, and all sorts of the weird and wacky.
This year’s special guests include actors from The Lord of the Rings, Doctor Who, The Avengers, The Last of Us, Supernatural, and Stranger Things, just to name a few. Frodo himself (Elijah Wood) and Captain America (Chris Evans) are just a couple of the big stars you might encounter.
3. Cheer on the Seattle Sounders – Starting March 2
Lumen Field is the place to go for epic city skyline views enjoyed while mingling with passionate locals and cheering on the Seattle Sounders. With any luck, you’ll be able to celebrate a win afterward at one of the neighboring waterholes. A cold pint can also be a good way to ease your sorrows following a loss while commiserating with other fans at places like The Meyer. It’s known for its fun pirate-themed decor, dive-y vibe, and tasty pizza by the slice. Or, for an exceptional selection of craft brews that can be paired with classic bar bites, head to the Gantry Public House.
4. Taste Washington – March 14-24
Seattle offers dozens of outstanding food and wine events but Taste Washington is the crown jewel. The country’s largest single-region event of its kind, it’s a celebration of Washington’s vibrant culinary and viticultural talents. The Grand Tasting, its flagship event on March 16-17, features over 250 producers and the state’s best restaurants.
The culinary festival kicks off at Pier 62 with a focus on the abundance of Pacific Northwest seafood. Think seafood boils, a salmon bake, sushi, oysters, chowder, and more. A lineup of roses, whites, and sparkling wines will be on offer too. On the final four days, the Dinner Series features a multi-course dinner prepared by two acclaimed chefs complemented by wine pairings from a Washington winery. Perfect for a special date night!
5. Catch a Live Show
While grunge may have faded into the past long ago, Seattle’s music scene continues to thrive. There are countless venues throughout the city whether you want to catch a local artist or an international band. Chelsea Cutler plays the Showbox on March 14 while Climate Pledge Arena hosts Grammy Award-winning artist Bad Bunny on March 9 and country star Tim McGraw on March 29.
If comedy is what you’re after, two-time Emmy Award winner Trevor Noah will be in the spotlight at Paramount Theatre March 19-24. Or see Emmy-winning Chris Redd at the intimate Laughs Comedy Club on March 1-2.
6. St. Patrick’s Day – March 16-17
Whether you’re in Victoria or plan to visit Seattle, you’re going to have some great options for celebrating St. Paddy’s Day. Not surprisingly, the “Emerald City” often ranks high on lists of the best destinations for honoring the Irish holiday. Its festival begins with the arrival of St. Patrick himself in South Lake Union by the Wooden Boat Center at noon on March 16. The parade, starting at Jefferson Street and 4th Avenue, follows. You’ll see everything from Irish dancing groups, Irish setters, and elaborate floats to pipe bands and pirates proceeding along 4th Avenue to Westlake Park.
Closing ceremonies are held at Seattle Center where the annual Irish Festival continues the fun at the Armory Food & Event Hall with live music, dance performances, and more. On the morning of St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, the 40th annual St. Patrick’s Day Dash takes place featuring a traditional 5K race. Participants are invited to run, walk, jog, or crawl, with stroller-pushing parents welcome. Your reward post-run? Delicious Irish foods and Guinness to wash it all down., live music, and dance performances. Get creative and don your craziest green attire as there will be a costume contest too.
The beautiful British Columbia capital does St. Paddy’s Day up right too. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Government Street between Fort and Yates Streets near the Irish Times Pub, you’ll find lots to do. Enjoy live entertainment, market stalls, food vendors, and family-friendly games. Little ones can work off their energy in a bounce castle with inflatable slides. If you’re looking for some adult fun, join the St Patrick’s Day Party with the Hounds of Cuchulain. It promises a night of raucous revelry with Irish music and dancing.
Traveling with FRS Clipper March 5 – 18? Grab a brochure onboard and save up to 25% at our top picks for a St Patrick’s day bite and brew. From Kells Irish Resteraunt and Bar to Shawn O’Donnell’s sip, celebrate and save with us.
7. Experience a Taste of Venice in Ballard
Perfect for a romantic outing or an intimate meal with friends and family, at San Fermo in Ballard, you’ll be transported to Venice while indulging in mouthwatering house-made pasta. Nestled in one of the neighborhood’s most historic homes, it comes complete with a fabulous covered porch. Even when it’s chilly out, you can enjoy alfresco dining, thanks to the lap blankets and heaters bringing warmth and a charming ambiance.
8. Catch a Mariners’ Game – March 28-31
Catch the Seattle Mariners’ home opener on March 28, or one of the three games against the Boston Red Sox that follow. No matter what the weather, with the retractable roof at T-Mobile Park, you can look forward to everything from classic peanuts, hot dogs, and beer to pomegranate BBQ pork wings at Holy Smokes BBQ, and chowder bread bowls from Ivar’s. With any luck, you’ll be able to soak up some sunshine and revel in a win. Just be sure to get your tickets as far in advance as possible, as the season opener, and most games, tend to sell out quickly.
9. Shop the Belltown Boutiques
Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty of ways to work out their wallets in Seattle but the Belltown neighborhood is hard to beat. One of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city, it boasts many enticing Indie boutiques. First Avenue is particularly retail-centric. A visit to Khulman, is sure to help you look your best with tailored clothing for men and women. Owner Scott Khulman will happily guide you through the collection that includes hard-to-find designers and accessories.
From Khulman’s you’ll be within easy reach of Rabecca Onassis Boutique known for its chic selection of womenswear and accessories.
10. Seattle Cocktail Week – March 26 – April 2
We all know that Seattleites love their coffee, but caffeine-infused drinks aren’t the only way to go here. The city also boasts a thriving cocktail scene when it’s time to unwind. One of the best ways to sample it is during the week-long extravaganza known as Seattle Cocktail Week. Taking place from March 3-10, 2024, it brings together the city’s top bars and some of the best liquor brands in the world.
The highlight is the Carnival of Cocktails on March 9, a grand tasting event with food trucks, masterclasses, and more than 100 different spirits. This is your opportunity to savor the flavors and learn how to make some of your favorite drinks, along with some creative gems. Keep in mind that this is a popular event and tickets to this and all of the events tend to sell out quickly
